Boat Rentals at Shelby Farms Park on Hyde Lake in Memphis
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes to 2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior experience needed
Overview
Discover the joy of paddling on Hyde Lake at Shelby Farms Park in Memphis. Perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, these boat rentals offer a simple, scenic way to enjoy the outdoors and support park conservation efforts. Whether you're seeking a relaxing paddle or a fun outing with friends and family, Hyde Lake provides a calm water setting amid Memphis’s lively outdoor scene. Rent a paddle boat from Tuesday through Sunday, and soak in the views of lush landscapes while making memories on the water. Safe, accessible, and close to the city, Shelby Farms Park’s boat rentals stand out as a top local activity for all ages.
Boat Rentals at Hyde Lake
1 Hour Rentals - Kayaks, Canoes, and Paddle Boards
Select Your Date & Time
About This Adventure
Experience the beauty of an 80-acre lake at Shelby Farms Park with paddle rentals available Tuesday through Sunday. Enjoy a unique outdoor adventure while supporting the park's conservation efforts. Bring your family, including dogs, and create unforgettable memories on the water, all while ensuring safety with provided flotation devices.
#Paddle the Park! Enjoy the 80 acre lake in Heart of the Park! Proceeds from your rental help support Shelby Farms Park Conservancy.
Tuesday-Sunday | 1 Hour Rentals 12:30pm - 6:30pm | Last reservation going out at 5:30pm
##Important Details
- By completing the purchase of this rental, you acknowledge that you are the responsible party for yourself and any minors/children for whom you are also purchasing.
- Each rental is for a specific day and time. If you are late for your reservation, your scheduled end time will not change.
- Children under 13 years of age cannot be in a boat alone in the water, the child must be accompanied by a person over 16 years old in the same boat.
- All persons 12 years or under are required to wear a personal flotation device. According to TWRA regulations, those not following this requirement may be subject to a fine. Shelby Farms Park will provide a flotation device for each individual person who has checked in at the Boat House.
- Dogs are welcomed!
##Weight Limits Single Kayak (300 lbs) Double Kayak ( 450 lbs) Canoe (850 lbs) Stand Up Paddle Board (350 lbs)
##What happens if there is inclement weather? In the event of inclement weather (lightning strikes in the area or high winds that are prohibitive for paddling), our rental locations will close until the area is clear of lightning for 45 minutes or until prohibitive wind conditions subside. Customers with reservations within these time frames will be contacted by Shelby Farms Park to reschedule for a later time and/or date.
Adventure Tips
Wear a life jacket at all times
Always use the provided flotation devices for safety during your paddle trip.
Check the weather forecast
Wind or storms can affect water conditions; plan your rental on a clear day for the best experience.
Bring sunscreen and water
Protect yourself from sun exposure and stay hydrated while on the water.
Arrive early to secure a boat
Peak hours can fill up quickly, especially weekends—arrive early for a better selection.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons
- Garter snakes
History
Hyde Lake and Shelby Farms Park have long served as communal outdoor spaces, with the park officially established in the mid-20th century and evolving into a key recreational hub.
Conservation
The park actively manages conservation programs aimed at maintaining native habitats and promoting sustainable outdoor recreation.
Select participants and date
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Helps prevent sunburn during sunny days on the water.
summer specific
Hat and sunglasses
Provides shade and reduces glare for comfortable paddling.
summer specific
Light waterproof jacket
Keeps you comfortable if the weather turns breezy or drizzly.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during your time on the water.